Gorilla Trekking in Africa is available in three countries – Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. You’ll find them scattered around national parks such as Rwanda’s volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, each home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.
Unfortunately, this beloved species cannot successfully survive in captivity. This means that travelers can only see them when they walk through the misty rainforest to observe them in their natural habitat. All gorilla species are currently considered endangered. But thanks to ecotourism and efforts to protect mountain gorillas in recent years, their population has slowly increased.
UGANDA ALLOWED GORILLAS
to see mountain gorillas in Uganda, you will need an Uganda Gorilla permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). These permits are very limited to only 180 per day, as tourism is strictly controlled to protect the gorilla habitat. We, therefore, recommend that you arrange your permits as far in advance as possible. Sometimes these Gorilla hiking permits are sold 4 to 5 months in advance.
WHAT YOU HAVE FROM UGANDA GORILLA SAFARIS CAN EXPECT
Uganda is widely known as one of the best countries to see mountain gorillas in the wild. It is much more affordable than gorilla trekking in neighboring Rwanda and much safer than in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Uganda Gorilla Trekking permits allow one hour with the powerful primates, which starts from the moment you find them. This does not include the time you spend wandering through the jungle in search of gorillas, which can take from 5 to 6 hours. So if you book a 2-day hike in Uganda, spend an hour with them every day.
GORILLA TREKKING IN RWANDA
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is even more limited than in Uganda, with only 80 permits per day and groups limited to no more than 8 people. It is therefore important to book your permit as early as possible to secure your place. If you travel during the high season, there is competition from other people who want permits. But if you go on Safaris in Rwanda during the rainy season, it will be easier for you to book.
WHAT YOU HAVE GORILLA RWANDA SAFARIS CAN EXPECT
According to our sources, gorilla migrations in Rwanda are generally less intense and exhausting than in Uganda, because the trails are more established and maintained. There is very little bush along the way. No matter how difficult or muddy your hike, being surrounded by moms, babies and massive silverback gorillas is an experience you will never forget. Volcanoes National Park is also home to golden monkeys, spotted hyenas, elephants and 178 endangered bird species.